Question
What is a KVL and how is it used?
Answer
The KVL is used to create, organize, store and distribute encryption keys to Motorola Devices for all secure communication features.
Note:
This is a general description of the KVL and some of the basic usages. There are many models of KVL each with Specific capabilities.
For detailed information the specific model of KVL and usage will need to be found in order to find the proper manual.
The References used in this article are:
MN004751A01 Key_Variable_Loader_5000_Detailed_Service_Manual
MN005113A01 KVL_5000_User_Guide
MN004888A01 KVL_4000_Radio_Authentication_User_Guide.pdf
Key Terms:
KVL - Key Variable Loader or just Key loader
KeyID(KID) - is a Unique ID assigned to each key that is used by the software to identify keys. This number is used by the device.
CKR - Common Key Reference - Is an index number for the location of a key Talkgroups or devices.
Key Material or key - This is the binary or hexadecimal string that is the actual key. This varies in size based on the encryption algorithm.
Basic operation:
Use the KVL to generate a key.
Assign the key a keyID , Assign the Key a CKR and then either automatically generate a key or manually enter the key.
Connect the KVL to the Device and load the key into the device.
Loading of the key(s) into the device will require a cable or connection as specified in the manual for that KVL and the Device.
Notes
The KVL only uses Hard wired connections. Wifi Is not supported.
Other Notes:
A KVL can support up to 1024 total keys.
A KVL can generate keys either manually or automatically.
A KVL can organize the CKRs into Groups in porter to load multiple keys into a single device at one time.
A KVL can only load keys into 1 device at a time.
Does not support the OTAR feature.